Tuesday, December 29, 2009

The Importance of Sanitation

For control of many structural pests, and turf and ornamental pests and diseases, site sanitation is critical to success. Integrated pest management (IPM) depends on non chemical solutions to alleviate pest issues. One of the most important is site sanitation. For interior sanitation, this time of year can provide a great opportunity for homes and businesses to clear out the cobwebs and improve the level of sanitation. Sanitation usually means implementing proper disposal of waste, but should be expanded to include reduction of clutter, here is a list of ideas on sanitation from the EPA website. An unorganized area, that is inaccessible to you, probably would be a great harborage for insects and rodents. Stored items should be off the ground and away from walls (12 inches is ideal) if possible.
-Lauren Greenhow, General Manager, GreenHow, Inc.
www.GreenHow.com Effective Organic & Low Impact Solutions, Lawn Care, Pest Control & Termite Control in Newton and Metro Boston.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Pantry Pests

It's great to have the holidays here, and guests and parties on these cold winter nights. As you pull out long unused baking sheets or flower, pay attention to signs of pantry pests. These signs include webbing in the rice or flour container, evidence of small silky cocoons in the corners of cabinets, or adult moths. These insects have complete metamorphosis, meaning the eggs are laid on or near the infested product, hatch to become a larval stage (worm-like) that feeds on the flour, rice, cereal, or other product, then climbs to a high point to pupate into an adult reproductive moth. Freeze infested products like bird food or pet food if you don't want to discard them, otherwise discard infested products and clean out cabinets of pupal casings.
-Lauren Greenhow, General Manager, GreenHow, Inc.
www.GreenHow.com
. Effective Organic & Low Impact Solutions, Lawn Care, Pest Control & Termite Control in Newton and Metro Boston